However, a recent Equifax survey of more than 350 HR professionals reveals that this digital transformation has created a double-edged sword. While nearly eight in 10 respondents (78%) report that AI successfully drives efficiency in hiring and onboarding, more than one-third (36%) admit that candidate use of AI to generate application materials has reduced their confidence in hiring decisions. The very technology meant to bolster talent acquisition has helped trigger a candidate authenticity crisis.